We Can Know the Truth about the Judgment (John 8:31-32)
Introduction:
1. In these verses Jesus stated that His disciples can know something very special -- "the truth." 2. Jesus also revealed the key to knowing the truth -- "continuing in His word." 3. Knowing the truth is essential because it provides a special blessing -- it makes us free. 4. In our lesson we are searching the Lord's word so "we can know the truth about the judgment." 5. Let us begin with a fundamental point. Discussion: I. THE LORD'S WORD TEACHES THAT JUDGMENT WILL OCCUR
A. Before Jesus came in the flesh, Solomon showed in Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 that judgment will occur. B. Jesus often mentioned the judgment (Matthew 10:14-15; 11:20-24; 12:36). C. Additional passages: Acts 17:30-31; Hebrews 9:27. II. THE LORD'S WORD EMPHASIZES BEING READY FOR JUDGMENT
A. According to 2 Corinthians 5:10, everyone will face the Lord in judgment. B. During His ministry Jesus stated that: 1. He is the judge (John 5:22) 2. His Word is the standard by which we will be judged (John 12:48). C. At the judgment there will be a separation (Matthew 25:31-33). D. To those: 1. who are prepared, judgment will be a time for rejoicing 2. who are unprepared, judgment will be a time of great sadness. E. When Jesus returns, it will be too late to get ready -- the time to prepare is now. F. Jesus wants us to get ready and stay ready (Matthew 24:42, 44; 25:13). III. THE LORD'S WORD ADDRESSES SPECIFIC MATTERS THAT RELATE TO BEING READY FOR THE JUDGMENT
A. First, we will be judged on whether we are members of His church. 1. We learn from Acts 2:47 that Christ adds those who are saved to His church. 2. We learn from 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 that those who do not obey the Gospel will "be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord." 3. We learn from Revelation 2:10 that the faithful will receive "a crown of life." B. Each person will be judged by: 1. his judgment of others (Matthew 7:1-2; John 7:24) 2. his words (Matthew 12:35-37; Colossians 4:6) 3. his works (Matthew 16:27; 1 Corinthians 15:58) 4. his assistance of the needy (Matthew 25:31-46; Galatians 6:10) 5. what is written in the books (Revelation 20:12). Conclusion:
1. These matters are extremely important. 2. The way we approach them will affect our standing at the judgment. 3. Are you prepared to face Jesus in judgment? (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)
